Why Do Hair Shears Rust? The Truth About Stainless Steel & How to Prevent Corrosion

Introduction

Many hairstylists assume that stainless steel hair shears are completely resistant to rust, but that’s not entirely accurate. While high-quality stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance, it is not completely impervious to rust. If you’ve ever noticed discoloration or rust spots on your shears, you’re not alone.

In this guide, we’ll delve into why hair shears rust, how stainless steel combats corrosion, and what you can do to prevent rust and prolong the lifespan of your shears.

Why Do Hair Shears Rust?

Rust forms when the iron content in steel interacts with oxygen and moisture, causing oxidation. Although stainless steel includes protective elements like chromium, it isn’t entirely rust-proof. Below are the main factors that contribute to rust formation on hair shears:

1. High Humidity and Moisture Exposure

• Hair salons are naturally humid environments due to frequent exposure to water and steam.

• Storing shears in a damp drawer or leaving them wet after cleaning accelerates oxidation.

• Even residual moisture from haircuts can contribute to rust development over time.

2. Inferior Stainless Steel Quality

• Not all stainless steel is of the same grade. Lower-quality shears contain less chromium, making them more vulnerable to rust.

• High-end Japanese stainless steel, such as ATS-314 or VG-10, offers superior rust resistance due to its higher chromium content.

3. Chemical Exposure

• Hair products, disinfectants, and cleaning agents can erode the protective chromium layer in stainless steel.

• Harsh sanitizing solutions, such as alcohol-based or chlorine-based cleaners, can accelerate corrosion.

4. Poor Maintenance Practices

• Failing to thoroughly dry shears after washing leaves behind water droplets, which promote rust.

• Neglecting regular oiling and lubrication reduces protection against moisture and friction.

• Using abrasive cleaning materials (such as rough towels) can create micro-scratches, making shears more prone to oxidation.

5. Contact with Sweat and Salts

• Human sweat contains salt, which can corrode stainless steel over time.

• Holding shears with sweaty hands and failing to wipe them down afterward may lead to rust formation.

Understanding Stainless Steel in Hair Shears

Hair shears are made from different types of stainless steel, each with varying levels of corrosion resistance. Here’s what you need to know:

1. The Role of Chromium in Preventing Rust

• Stainless steel contains chromium, which forms an oxide layer that protects against rust.

• Higher chromium content (typically 10-30%) enhances corrosion resistance.

• High-quality shears contain at least 13% chromium, such as VG-10, 440C, or ATS-314.

2. Comparing High-Quality vs. Low-Quality Stainless Steel

Steel Type	Chromium Content	Rust Resistance
ATS-314	14-15%	Excellent
VG-10	15%	Excellent
440C	16-18%	Very Good
420 Stainless Steel	12-14%	Moderate
Low-Grade Steel	<10%	Poor

• Cheap shears are often made with 420 stainless steel or lower, making them more susceptible to rust.

• High-end Japanese shears (e.g., ATS-314, VG-10) have higher chromium and vanadium content, improving rust resistance.

How to Prevent Rust on Hair Shears

Proper maintenance is essential to preventing rust. Here are the best practices for keeping your shears corrosion-free:

1. Keep Shears Completely Dry

• Never store wet shears—wipe them dry after each use.

• Use a soft microfiber cloth to dry both the blades and the pivot area.

• Store shears in a dry environment, away from excess humidity.

2. Regularly Oil Your Shears

• Apply shear oil to the blades and pivot area at least 3-4 times a week.

• Oil acts as a barrier against moisture, reducing the risk of rust.

• Use high-quality shear oil rather than generic lubricants.

3. Proper Cleaning Methods

• Avoid using harsh chemicals that strip away the protective chromium layer.

• Clean shears with a gentle shear cleaner or rubbing alcohol applied to a soft cloth.

• Always remove hair and residue after every haircut.

4. Store Shears in a Protective Case

• A dry, protective case helps prevent exposure to moisture.

• Adding silica gel packets inside the case can absorb excess humidity.

• Avoid leaving shears in humid environments like bathrooms or closed drawers.

5. Prevent Contact with Hair Products

• Hairspray, bleach, and other hair chemicals can corrode steel over time.

• If shears come into contact with hair products, rinse and wipe them immediately.

6. Follow a Routine Maintenance Schedule

• Daily: Wipe shears with a soft cloth to remove hair and moisture.

• Weekly: Apply shear oil and clean the pivot area thoroughly.

• Monthly: Inspect for rust spots and sharpen shears if necessary.

How to Remove Rust from Hair Shears

If rust has already developed on your shears, here’s how you can fix it:

1. Use a Rust Eraser

• A scissor rust eraser can gently remove surface rust without damaging the blade.

• Lightly rub the affected area, then wipe clean with a soft cloth.

2. Baking Soda Paste

• Mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste.

• Apply the paste to rust spots, let sit for 5-10 minutes, and gently scrub with a soft cloth.

3. White Vinegar Treatment

• Soak a cotton swab in white vinegar and rub it over the rusted area.

• Rinse and dry immediately to prevent further oxidation.

4. Professional Sharpening Service

• If rust has penetrated deep into the blade, professional sharpening may be required.

• A skilled shear sharpener can remove rust while maintaining blade integrity.

Conclusion

While stainless steel hair shears are designed to resist rust, they are not entirely rust-proof. Exposure to moisture, improper maintenance, and chemical contact can cause oxidation over time.

By implementing a consistent cleaning, drying, and oiling routine, hairstylists can prevent rust and ensure their shears remain in excellent condition. Investing in high-quality Japanese steel shears and maintaining them properly will help them last for years.

If you’re searching for rust-resistant, high-performance shears, explore Michiko Shears, crafted from premium Japanese stainless steel for superior durability and precision.